Burger 21 Grows to 11 Units in 2012, Plans More Expansion

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Burger 21, a new fast-casual concept founded by the owners of The Melting Pot Restaurants, announced that it signed franchise agreements with six different entities in six states in 2012 to develop a total of 11 restaurants as part of its aggressive growth strategy to bring its crafted burgers and hand-dipped shakes to more cities across the country.

Most recently, the Tampa, Florida–based “beyond the better burger” concept opened its first franchised restaurant in Orlando. The brand also signed franchise agreements to develop four restaurants in Washington, D.C., over the next few years, in addition to franchise agreements in Atlanta; Voorhees, New Jersey; and Charlotte, North Carolina.

A second Orlando location is scheduled to open near the University of Central Florida in late February.

“Since initially announcing our expansion plans, Burger 21 has had a strong year of franchise development,” says Mark Johnston, Burger 21 president and chief concept officer and president of Front Burner Brands, management company for Burger 21.

“Our franchisees recognize the strength of our growing brand, knowing that their investment is supported by a management team with more than 25 years of franchise experience,” he adds. “Their confidence and passion for Burger 21 is what continues to drive the success of our development.”

In addition to expanding the company’s footprint in its existing growth markets, the brand plans to target additional areas, including South Florida, Dallas, and New York, for future development in 2013.

To further fuel its expansion, Burger 21 is actively seeking qualified franchisees and will host a live webinar on January 16 at 2 p.m. EST.

Additionally, Burger 21 will be exhibiting at Franchise Expo South January 11–13 at the Miami Beach Convention Center. Local entrepreneurs are invited to meet with the brand’s franchise development team at booth No. 226 to learn more about growth opportunities.

Burger 21 is seeking single and multiunit operators with restaurant experience along the East Coast and throughout the country to join its upscale fast-casual dining concept.

Franchisee candidates should have a minimum net worth of $500,000 and liquid assets of at least $200,000 per unit. Burger 21 will be developed through both single-unit agreements and Area Development Agreements.

Depending on the real-estate site selected, franchisees can expect the total cost of investment for one restaurant to be approximately $597,995–$831,995.

The initial franchise fee is $40,000; however, reduced franchise fees apply for Area Development Agreements of four or more units.